COSTA DO SAUIPE, Brazil — Second-seeded Nicolas Almagro of Spain fought off a comeback attempt by countryman Carlos Moya to win the Brazil Open 7-6 (4), 3-6, 7-5 today.

It took Almagro 2½ hours to defeat the top-seeded Moya in this seaside resort in northeastern Brazil and win a top prize of $77,300.

Almagro used a powerful backhand and several well-placed shots to beat the 31-year-old Moya, who appeared tired for much of the match. Moya's five matches in the tournament averaged 2 hours each.

The 23-year-old Almagro has now won three career ATP titles.